Mary Ann Mellen Root

Mary Ann Mellen Root died peacefully on November 2, 2026, at the age of 95 in Bluffton SC. She was born in Shaker Heights OH on August 29, 1931, to Louis Mellen and Frances Burnett Mellen. Mary Ann graduated from Laurel School in 1949 and Sweet Briar College in 1953 with a BA in English. Her Laurel and Sweet Briar classmates were lifelong treasured friends. Mary Ann married John Lincoln Root in 1957 and had 43 wonderful years together. Their lives took them to Illinois, Ohio, Connecticut, Georgia and South Carolina. She is survived by her children; Francie Root of Atlanta GA, Randy Root and his wife Leslie, of Jacksonville FL and David Root of Hilton Head SC. She was affectionally known to her grandchildren; Kyle and Devin and great grandchildren; Aurora and Bella as “Lady Gram”.

Mary Ann was an avid gardener and was always with her hands in the dirt. As a member of the Junior League, she held many community volunteer positions throughout her life. Serving on the Alumnae Board of Sweet Briar College, she cherished returning to campus for meetings and reunions. In her later years, Mary Ann looked forward her weekly volunteer time at The Bargin Box of Hilton Head where she volunteered for over 30 years. With her lifelong love of literature, she was often found with a book in her hands or reciting favorite poems and lines from books she loved. Most of all, Mary Ann loved time spent with family and friends, particularly on the beach at Hilton Head.

Her welcoming smile, sparkle and humor will be missed and her love and generosity always remembered.

The family is grateful for the care and support shown to Mary Ann from the dedicated team at Agape Care Hospice and The Palmettos of Bluffton.

A private family service will be held at Lake View Cemetery, Cleveland OH on December 7, 2026.